Setting The Record Straight: Minister Of Niger Delta Development’s Office Responds To BNC Claims With Official Statement

Setting The Record Straight: Minister Of Niger Delta Development’s Office Responds To BNC Claims With Official Statement

In response to recent statements from the Benin National Congress (BNC) regarding the absence of Engr Abubakar Momoh FNSE, the Minister of Niger Delta Development Ministry, from a scheduled hearing, it is imperative to address the misconceptions raised by the group and provide clarity on the matter.

While ordinarily we would not have deemed it necessary to respond to such statements, it is important to ensure the public has a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the Minister’s absence from the hearing scheduled for March 7th at the House of Representatives Room 429 (New Wing).

Contrary to insinuations made by the BNC, the Minister’s absence was not a deliberate attempt to evade accountability or ignore the concerns raised. Rather, it was due to logistical constraints and a lack of sufficient notice provided for the hearing.

The letter of invitation from the National Assembly, dated February 21st, 2024, was only delivered to the Minister’s office on March 5th, 2024, at 10:08 am and only got to his desk at the close of official duties later in the day. An attachment of the letter and its corresponding reply to this statement clearly shows the date of delivery. This delayed receipt left insufficient time for the Minister to adequately prepare and rearrange his schedule to attend the hearing, especially considering other prior commitments.

In a timely manner, the Minister responded to the invitation, expressing regret for his inability to attend due to the short notice and offering his willingness to participate in a rescheduled hearing. He specifically requested that any future hearings be arranged on days that do not conflict with his obligations, such as Mondays or Wednesdays, when Federal Executive Council Meetings are typically held.

It is regrettable that instead of seeking clarification on the Minister’s absence, the BNC chose to hastily publicize their grievances and cast unwarranted aspersions. Such actions undermine the professionalism and integrity of the discourse surrounding the allocation of projects and amenities in the Niger Delta region.

The Minister holds the House Committee on Public Petitions in high regard and remains committed to engaging constructively in the legislative process for the betterment of the citizens. He eagerly awaits a rescheduled hearing where he can address the concerns raised by the BNC and other stakeholders in a conducive and transparent manner.

In conclusion, it is imperative that all parties involved exercise restraint and professionalism in their engagements, focusing on constructive dialogue and collaboration to achieve meaningful outcomes for the Niger Delta region and its people.